BAINBRIDGE, Ohio — Pap’s Hilltop Distillery, in collaboration with JobsOhio, Ohio Southeast Economic Development (OhioSE), and Greater Chillicothe & Ross County Development, announced today a planned investment of $494,000 for the expansion of its operations in Bainbridge. This initiative is expected to create three new jobs.
Pap’s Hilltop Distillery, a family and woman-owned micro-distillery, specializes in crafting small-batch, double-distilled spirits using copper pot stills. The distillery boasts over a dozen variations of moonshine and is currently working on introducing a rum later this year, with plans for a bourbon and apple brandy release in 2025. The company exclusively sources all grains used in its production from Ohio farms, with Schoolhouse Farms in Rockford, OH, serving as the primary grain supplier—a multi-generational farm specializing in heirloom grains.
Having recently acquired and revitalized a historic building in downtown Bainbridge, Pap’s Hilltop Distillery now aims to revitalize a vacant facility to expand its liquor production, warehousing, and distribution operations.
Christopher Lewis, co-owner of Pap’s Hilltop Distillery alongside his wife Katy, expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support from the family and community since the distillery’s inception in Bainbridge. Lewis stated, “We are excited about our expansion plans. This expansion will allow us to grow and develop new products. We are truly thankful for the support from JobsOhio, Ohio Southeast Economic Development, and Greater Chillicothe & Ross County Development. This project would not be possible without them.”
The expansion is poised to enhance production capabilities, enabling the company to distribute its products across Ohio and beyond. Additionally, the expansion will facilitate the launch of a ‘low proof’ product line.
In a unique endeavor, as third-generation beekeepers, Chris and Marc Lewis, also operate Pap’s Hilltop Honey. They have collaborated with distilleries in Gatlinburg, TN, to source barrels for their barrel-aged honey production, incorporating it into their small-batch moonshine.
Tammy Eallonardo, Director of Greater Chillicothe & Ross County Development, praised Pap’s Hilltop Distillery, calling it a “Ross County gem” with a widespread customer base. Eallonardo expressed excitement about supporting the distillery’s growth.
JobsOhio supported the expansion through a $50,000 JobsOhio Inclusion Grant, with OhioSE assisting in the grant process. The JobsOhio Inclusion Grant aims to provide financial support for eligible projects in designated distressed communities and/or for businesses owned by underrepresented populations across the state.
Katy Farber, Vice President of OhioSE, highlighted Pap’s Hilltop Distillery as a testament to the entrepreneurial spirit thriving in southeastern Ohio. Farber expressed gratitude for the JobsOhio Inclusion Grant’s role in supporting the company’s ongoing investment in revitalizing downtown Bainbridge.